Archive · 28 Jan 2026
17 Browser Extensions Flagged as Spyware Risk
Some browser extensions that people use to make their online experience better might actually be dangerous.
A company that studies cybersecurity found 17 extensions for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox that could be spying on users.
These extensions were downloaded over 840,000 times and were available for a long time without anyone noticing.
They could track what users do online, run secret code, and even steal important information.
The most popular one was downloaded 500,000 times.
Experts say users should check their extensions and remove any they don't recognize or need.
This shows that even extensions from trusted stores can be risky, and more checks might be needed to keep users safe.
17 browser extensions for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox flagged as potential spyware by cybersecurity firm LayerX.
Extensions have been downloaded over 840,000 times, with some active for over five years.
Most downloaded extension, 'Google Translate in Right Click,' had 500,000 installs.
Extensions could secretly track users, run hidden code, and expose sensitive information.
Microsoft and Mozilla have removed the extensions, but many users may already be affected.
- Who
- Cybersecurity firm LayerX and users of the flagged browser extensions
- What
- 17 browser extensions identified as potential spyware
- When
- Recently reported by LayerX, with extensions active for over five years
- Where
- Chrome Web Store, Edge, and Firefox browsers
- Why
- Extensions may secretly track users, run hidden code, and expose sensitive information
- Number of Extensions Flagged
- 17
- Total Downloads
- 840,000+
- Most Downloaded Extension
- Google Translate in Right Click (500,000 installs)
- Browsers Affected
- Chrome, Edge, Firefox
- Security Firm
- LayerX
- Extensions Removed By
- Microsoft and Mozilla